An Update on Camp and the Forest Fires in Sonoma & Napa Counties

As many of you may have heard, since 10pm last night, forest fires have been burning in Sonoma and Napa counties. It is with tremendous shock and sadness that we share that the majority of the buildings at our beloved Camp Newman home have been destroyed.

Right now, the reports are that the fires in the area are still burning. As you might assume, information coming out of the area right now is spotty. Our staff has not been able to visit camp, and may not be able to for a few days. We will, of course, provide you with more information as it becomes available. Please continue to check Facebook for ongoing updates.

Most importantly, we take great comfort in knowing that all of our staff are safe. We are so grateful to the first responders and firefighters who attempted to save our camp buildings. We are keeping these heroic and hardworking people in our thoughts and prayers as they continue to work to protect the people and the places in our Camp Newman neighborhood, for whom we will continue to pray. If you have evacuated your home and need a safe place with power and water, you can visit our wonderful Reform synagogue close to camp, Congregation Shomrei Torah.

We have been so moved by your outpouring of love, support and concern for camp. It is a powerful reminder that Camp is about our holy community, our kehillah kedosha.

In the weeks to come, we will share more details about our plans for the future. We will also provide a way for your children and teens to process this news, and how you can help.

Thank you for keeping Camp Newman and the beautiful land it occupies in your hearts and thoughts.

To all those who love Camp Newman and our community, together we will go from strength to strength,